Movie Review
Devon Zawko, Staff Writer
After months of shrouding its plot in secrecy, “Interstellar” debuted in theaters Nov. 7. But did all the buildup and mystery live up to the hype? Unequivocally, yes.
Directed by Christopher Nolan and starring Matthew McConaughey, “Interstellar” is the movie of the year.
“Interstellar” isn’t for the weak-minded. Those who put in the effort to understand the complicated physics and relativity jargon will be rewarded with a compelling and exciting movie experience led by amazing special effects and explosions.
Anyone unimpressed with “Gravity” should not compare these two movies simply because they are both set in space. “Interstellar” is an adventure film. The astronauts do not simply float in space but explore other planets and other space dimensions. For those who become weary of endless space scenes, there is a lot still going on back on Earth as humans deal with a dying planet. The film goes back and forth between the brave astronauts in space and their loved ones back home. Interstellar is a movie that should be experienced in an IMAX theater to really capture the film’s beauty.
In the movie, Cooper, played by McConaughey, names his daughter after Murphy’s Law. Not because whatever bad can happen will happen, but because anything that can happen will happen. For example, an incredibly well known actor can make an unexpected and underwhelming cameo as Doctor Mann halfway through the film. With the already star-studded cast including McConaughey, Anne Hathaway and Jessica Chastain, the surprise appearance of the actor portraying Doctor Mann made it difficult to see the characters as they were, as opposed to a screen of Hollywood starlets. It was a comical entrance to say the least and the movie is fantastic without needing any more star power.
Hathaway and McConaughey did a great job at keeping the audience’s attention through a three hour, intellectually, scientifically and emotionally driven movie. Hathaway, unlike what many critics have said, did a great job playing the role of Doctor Brand. While many are not used to the typically quirky and romantic actress in a serious role, Hathaway transitioned quite well into a stern and meticulous scientist. Her character’s impromptu speech on love and following one’s heart was awkward and I believe is more a result of the writing than her performance.
The only thing that overshadowed the actors’ performances was Hans Zimmer’s score and quite literally. Zimmer’s music played for almost the complete duration of the film, often times so loud as to muffle what the characters were saying.
Interstellar is out of this world but also realistic enough to keep you thinking about the film and its plot long after the credits. If you’re interested in preparing for the end of the world, turn off whatever zombie flick you’re watching and go see “Interstellar.”
Interstellar Sentinel Score: 5 out of 5
